Changing Your Name After Divorce
At Change My Name, we understand that divorce is a deeply personal transition. For many, changing your name is an important part of starting fresh.
Whether you’re reverting to your maiden name or choosing something new, our service makes the process fast, secure, and recognised throughout the UK.
Our standalone Name Change Kit is designed to make reclaiming your name after divorce as smooth and stress-free as possible. It includes the essential forms, step-by-step instructions, and personalized checklists you need to update your records with government agencies, banks, employers, utilities, and more. From your driver’s license and passport to payroll and financial accounts, the kit guides you through each step to ensure nothing is missed. With clear instructions and ready-to-use templates, you can confidently take control of your name change and move forward with ease—all in one convenient package.
How to Change Your Name After Divorce
In the UK, the name change process after divorce depends on your chosen name:
- Reverting to Your Maiden Name? You may be able to do this without a Deed Poll, as long as you have the right documents.
- Creating a New Name or Missing Documentation? A Deed Poll will be required.
Reverting to Your Maiden Name
If your marriage and divorce both took place in the UK, and you have the necessary documentation, you can usually revert to your maiden name using:
- Your original marriage certificate
- Your original birth certificate
- Your decree absolute
- A signed declaration stating your intention to return to your maiden name
Missing Documents? Don’t Worry.
If you’ve lost your decree absolute, marriage certificate or birth certificate, you have two options:
- Order Replacement Documents from the appropriate government office
- Apply for a Deed Poll, our recommended option for simplicity and speed
A Deed Poll allows you to change your name, regardless of which documents you have or where your marriage/divorce occurred. It is officially recognised by all UK organisations, including HM Passport Office, DVLA, HMRC, banks, and more.
What If You’re Choosing a New Name?
If you’re not reverting to your maiden name but want to take on a new surname entirely, a Deed Poll is essential. Our fast, secure application ensures your new identity is officially recognised.
Update Your Name Across Official Records
Once your name change is confirmed, it’s important to inform the following organisations:
- HM Passport Office
- DVLA (Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency)
- HMRC
- Your employer and pension provider
- Banks, lenders, and credit card companies
- Local council (council tax, electoral register)
- Insurance providers
- Utility companies
- Health services (GP, dentist)
- Memberships and subscriptions
Remember: while most updates are optional, it is a requirement to update your passport and driver’s licence.
Changing Your Name on a UK Passport After Divorce
To update your name on your passport, contact HM Passport Office and submit either your Deed Poll or your decree absolute and marriage/birth certificates. You will receive a brand new 10-year passport.
For full details, visit our Passport Name Change Guide.
HM Passport Office
PO Box 767, Southport, PR8 9PW
Tel: 0300 222 0000
There is no fee to update your name on your driving licence. Simply notify the DVLA with the appropriate documents.
Visit our Driving Licence Name Change Guide for full instructions.
FAQs
About Name Changes After Divorce
Yes, but you’ll need a Deed Poll since you won’t yet have a decree absolute.
You can change from “Mrs.” to “Ms.” without a Deed Poll or official process.
No. Just be sure to notify your bank, lenders, and credit providers.
That’s completely your choice. Many people keep their married name for professional, personal, or practical reasons. There’s no requirement to change it.
It’s free to update your driving licence. A new passport may cost under £100. A Deed Poll from Change My Name costs just £19.95, including expert support.
